MELBOURNE ​

Saturday 30 April 2022

Every Journey Starts With First Step ​

In 2021, we made a choice that would change everything. With the 482 visa secured, Australia became our goal... a land of promise and possibility. We envisioned a brighter future for our family, filled with new experiences and opportunities. Then, in 2022, everything shifted. The war between Russia and Ukraine began, casting a shadow over our plans. Suddenly, it wasn't about adventure anymore; it was about survival.

On April 10, 2022, we arrived in Melbourne. What we found here wasn't just a new home, but a lifeline. We will never forget that ambient city-light we first fell in love.

First Impressions and Small Victories ​

The beginning was chaotic. New accents, unfamiliar roads, and a completely different pace of life made those early days overwhelming. Yet, there were moments of kindness that broke through the confusion.

For our children, the adjustment came quicker. They embraced the newness with open hearts, making friends and exploring their surroundings. We, as parents, faced a steeper climb-navigating bureaucratic systems, learning local customs, and tackling the challenge of driving on the left side of the road.

Each small success brought a sense of accomplishment, but the weight of the past lingered, making it harder for us to fully embrace the present.

Capturing the Journey ​

Why write all this down? Memories fade. This blog is our way of preserving the chaos, the joy, and the growth we've experienced along the way. It's a space to reflect on where we've been and to remind ourselves how far we've come.

One memory stands out vividly: the first time our youngest saw the ocean. Their awe and laughter filled us with a sense of gratitude that words can barely capture. These are the moments we want to hold on to forever.

Another memory, much quieter, stays with me too. A night when we sat around the table, eating a simple meal, and realized we were safe. It was an ordinary moment, but in its ordinariness, it felt extraordinary.

Looking Forward ​

Australia has become our sanctuary. While the journey has been challenging, it's also been full of discovery. We've learned to laugh at our missteps, celebrate small wins, and appreciate the beauty of starting fresh.

There's still so much ahead of us, and this blog will grow with our experiences. To anyone reading who is walking a similar path: keep going. Migration is hard, but it's also transformative. Sometimes, the hardest roads lead to the most rewarding destinations.